Australian Army Museum of Western Australia > Records

Medal - Australian Defence Medal

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Overview

The Australian Defence Medal is a circular medal of cupronickel. The obverse has a stylised version of the Commonwealth Coat of Arms as used on the Australia Service Medal 1939-45. This is surrounded by the inscription ‘THE AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE MEDAL’ above a sprig of wattle. The reverse is inscribed ‘FOR SERVICE’ below St Edward’s crown surrounded by two sprays of wattle leaves and blossom.
The ribbon is red with black edges, the colours of the Flanders poppy that represent the Anzac spirit of the Australian armed forces. The white stripes divide the ribbon into three, to denote the three Services and also represent service contributing to the peace of Australia.

Historical information

The Australian Defence Medal is an Australian military decoration which recognises current and former Australian Defence Force personnel who completed an initial enlistment period, or four years' service or enlisted for a fixed period and completed the specified period of enlistment. It was established on 20 March 2006; however, it recognises qualifying efficient service of current and former Australian Defence Force Regular and Reserve personnel, including National Servicemen, who have served since 3 September 1945.

Details

Registration number

cwa-org-32-99-362

Contextual Information

Multiple examples of this medal are retained either singly or in groups as an ongoing memorial to the service and sacrifice of Western Australians. Medals are displayed in context throughout the Museum. All medals are identified, archivally stored and those not on display are accessible and viewable with prior notice.

Australian Army Museum of Western Australia

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